Exogenous lipoid pneumonia associated with oil pulling: Report of two cases

Abstract

Two ladies with history of carcinoma of tongue presenting with un-resolving pneumonia were ultimately diagnosed to have lipoid pneumonia, and both were subsequently found to be associated with the practice of oil pulling which is a popular complementary therapy. Apart from cessation of oil pulling, they were treated with repeated therapeutic lobar broncho-alveolar lavage. Despite the potential benefits of oil pulling on oral health, people especially those at risk of aspiration, should be properly informed of this potential risk when considering this form of complementary therapy.